What is a Typical Adderall Dose for ADHD and Narcolepsy?

You might have read that a 15 mg Adderall pill is enough to provide relief from ADHD or narcolepsy. However, this is untrue. Adderall is available in multiple doses, and the dose necessary to provide relief depends on many factors, like age and tolerance. A typical Adderall dose starts at 2.5 mg for adults and 5 mg for children, which can be increased in increments until symptomatic relief is achieved.[1]

What is Adderall?

Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant made from a combination of two active ingredients: dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. [2][3] This medication is FDA-approved for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy in both children and adults.[4] However, some college students may use Adderall off-label to enhance their cognitive abilities and focus during study sessions, although this is not advised.[2]

People who misuse or abuse Adderall are at risk of developing an addiction due to its proclivity for dependence.[4] Additionally, possessing Adderall without a prescription is a felony as it is listed as a Schedule II Controlled Substance under the Federal Drug Control Act. [5]

What Doses Are Adderall Pills Available In?

Generic dextroamphetamine/amphetamine products are sold under the brand names Adderall and Adderall XR. Adderall is an immediate-release capsule that provides four to six hours of relief.[2] It is available in 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 mg pills. Adderall XR — the extended-release version — provides eight to 12 hours of relief.[2] It is available in 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 20 and 30 mg tablets.

Users can swallow extended-release capsules whole or open them and sprinkle the contents on applesauce or another food.[2] Immediate-release tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or opened.

What is the Standard Adderall Dose for Treating ADHD?

The National Institute of Mental Health defines attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a “developmental disorder characterized by an ongoing pattern of one or more of the following symptoms”:[6]

• Inattentiveness: Easily distracted, difficulty paying attention, trouble staying organized.
• Hyperactivity: Restlessness, constantly moving around, talking excessively.
• Impulsivity: Constantly interrupting, intruding on others, difficulty waiting one’s turn.

It is the most commonly diagnosed disorder in children, though it can, and often does, carry on into adulthood.[6] Without treatment, ADHD can contribute to depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders like insomnia. The most common treatment for ADHD is behavioral therapy and prescription Adderall.

Dosing Guidelines 

The standard dosing of Adderall for ADHD differs depending on the form of Adderall (i.e., immediate-release vs extended-release) and the patient’s age. The starting dosage is low and titrated until the patient is stabilized.

Adderall IR (Immediate Release):

• Children aged three to five: The Initial dose is 2.5 mg daily, titrated in 2.5 mg intervals weekly until symptomatic relief is achieved.[1]
• For children​​ aged six and over: The starting dose is 5 mg, taken once or twice daily.[1] This dose is increased in 5 mg weekly intervals, not to exceed a maximum dose of 40 mg daily.

This medication is not appropriate for use in children under three years of age.

Adderall XR (Extended Release):

• Children aged six to 17: The first dose is 10 mg daily.[7] This dose may be increased gradually to reach symptomatic relief but should not exceed a maximum dosage of 30 mg.
• Adults: A standard dose for an adult is 20 mg daily.[7]

Adderall XR is not appropriate for use in patients under the age of six.

What is the Typical Adderall Dose for Treating Narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy is a neurological condition that affects the sleep-wake cycle.[8] People with this condition have sleep attacks at any time of the day, making it dangerous to work with heavy machinery or drive. They may also lose control of their muscles, making it difficult to talk or move. This is called cataplexy and is often triggered by excitability.

Other symptoms include:[8]

• Sleep paralysis
• Fragmented sleep
• Insomnia
• REM sleep behavior disorder

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, these symptoms are treatable but will never completely go away.[8]

Narcolepsy Dosing Guidelines 

Simulant medications like Adderall — at an appropriate dose — activate the central nervous system (CNS), helping narcolepsy sufferers stay alert.[9]

Standard Adderall doses for narcolepsy are:

• Children aged six to 12: The recommended dosage is 5 mg daily, but it may be increased by 5 mg increments weekly, not exceeding 60 mg.
• Children aged 12 and older: The typical dosage is 10 mg daily, which is increased by 10 mg per week until symptomatic relief occurs.

Adderall XR may not be appropriate for individuals with narcolepsy due to its extended-release formula.

What is the Standard Adderall Dose for Off-Label Treatments?

Although Adderall is not officially indicated for the treatment of depression, some doctors may prescribe it as an antidepressant for patients who do not respond to other treatment options.[10] It may also be used off-label to treat depression in individuals with ADHD.[10] Furthermore, people with anxiety or bipolar disorder might experience relief with Adderall when used off-label, although it is not considered a first-line treatment. Since these uses are off-label, no standard dosage has been established.

Why do Adderall Doses for Adults and Children Differ?

Adderall is an amphetamine with the potential for dependency, so most people, regardless of age, are started on the lowest dose. There is only a small difference in dosing between children and adults. The factors influencing this difference include the drug form, condition treated, co-occurring conditions, and age. The start low and titrate slow approach is necessary to avoid serious side effects linked to higher doses, such as mania and psychosis.[11]

What is the Maximum Daily Dose of Adderall?

The maximum daily dose for Adderall in children is 40 mg.[2] In adults, the maximum dose is 60 mg per day[2]. These quantities may be taken in one to three divided doses. Taking a dose higher than this comes with the risk of adverse effects such as seizures and psychosis. In rare cases, sudden cardiac death. If symptomatic relief isn’t achieved at a maximum dose, the physician may taper the dose and introduce a different medication.

Can Reducing My Adderall Dose Cause Withdrawal?

Some people who abruptly stop using amphetamines experience a crash. This happens when the stimulant effects of the drug wear off suddenly. People who experience a crash may complain of the following symptoms:[12]

• Fatigue
• Depressed mood
• Compulsive eating
• Cravings to reinitiate use

After the initial withdrawal phase, which lasts a few days, individuals abstaining from Adderall may experience additional symptoms that can persist for several weeks.[12]

These symptoms include:[12]

• Mood swings
• Drug cravings
• Interrupted sleep
• Insomnia
• Lethargy

Some people may even experience symptoms of psychosis, which require emergency mental health care.[12]

Is Taking Too Much Adderall Harmful?

Some people feel that taking a higher dose of Adderall is more beneficial. However, taking too much Adderall can lead to an overdose. Adderall toxicity can cause short-term and long-term health complications, which require emergency care.[3]

Symptoms of an overdose include:[3]

• Restlessness
• Aggression
• Panic attack
• Confusion
• Fever
• Hallucination
• Rapid breathing
• Dark urine
• Muscle weakness
• Muscle aching
• Depression
• Irregular heartbeat
• Fast heartbeat
• Weakness
• Uncontrollable shaking
• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Blurred vision
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Seizures
• Coma

If you or someone you know is experiencing an overdose, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. If the person has stopped breathing or collapsed, call 911.

Why Does Adderall Come With Black Box Warnings?

According to the National Library of Medicine, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issues black box warnings to alert users of potential adverse effects or significant risks associated with certain medications.[13] Adderall has multiple Black Box warnings, which extend to all forms of Adderall.

Current Black Box warnings on Adderall include:

• Sudden Death/Cardiac Events: Adderall is a stimulant medication like Ritalin and Concerta. Stimulants, when abused, have the potential to cause serious heart problems when misused.[14] This includes a rapid or slow heart rate and sudden cardiac arrest.
• Dependence:  Using Adderall long-term can cause dependency. Dependency happens when someone abstains from using Adderall and experiences withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms may affect sleep, mood, and appetite.
• Abuse: People who use Adderall long-term may crave it after cessation. This could lead to the use of abusive doses.[14] Abuse occurs when the user has limited control over Adderall usage and continues to use it despite its negative effects.

While anyone taking Adderall may face the risks mentioned, individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD) or those who misuse Adderall are at a higher risk of experiencing these effects.

How Do I Know If I Have an Adderall Addiction? 

If you have experienced the following symptoms, you might have an addiction to Adderall:[15]

• Needing more Adderall to achieve the initial effects
• Having intense urges to use that makes it difficult to think of other things
• Using Adderall with an illicit drug to enhance its effects
• Continuing to use Adderall despite it causing you harm
• Taking risks to obtain more Adderall
• Falling behind in your obligations due to Adderall use
• Spending bill money on Adderall
• Stockpiling Adderall for fear of running out
• Using greater doses than permitted on the label
• Lying to your physician to obtain more
• Relapsing multiple times after quitting Adderall
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after quitting

If someone you know has an addiction to Adderall, they may display the following signs:[15]

• Frequently missing school or work
• Sudden decline in work or school performance
• Lack of energy or motivation to keep up hygienic habits
• Avoiding spending time with family or friends
• A sudden need for more funds without a logical reason
• Selling household items to obtain more Adderall
• Exercising poor judgment (like driving under the influence)
• Having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep regularly
• Complaining of frequent nausea or stomach aches
• Exhibiting anxious, irritable, or paranoid behavior
• Speaking faster than usual (rapid speech)
• Losing weight without dieting
• Incoherent, rambling speech

Individuals who have family members with addiction, have a history of addiction themselves, or suffer from a mental health disorder are at a greater risk of developing an addiction.[15] If you fall into a high-risk category, it is essential to consult your physician before taking Adderall. They may recommend a less addictive medication that offers similar benefits.

Finding Support for an Adderall Addiction 

People who develop a dependency on Adderall may be diagnosed with a substance use disorder. Currently, more than 48.7 million Americans are struggling with these disorders.[16] Sadly, many of them do not receive the help they need, which can result in a full-blown addiction.

If you are struggling with an addiction to prescription or street Adderall, acknowledging that you need help is the first step toward recovery. The next step is to contact your healthcare provider to discuss your challenges with stopping the use of Adderall. They may create a tapering schedule to help you safely reduce your dosage. If you have attempted to taper off but have relapsed, you might require support from an addiction treatment center.

At Southeast Detox GA, we provide addiction treatments that are evidence-based and scientifically proven to reduce your risk of relapsing after detox. We offer traditional approaches to care, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, medical detox, and adjunct holistic services like meditation, yoga, and more.

Contact us to learn more about our residential program and how it can help you overcome Adderall addiction.